Cuttack, Dec 9: The Orissa High Court on Tuesday sought a comprehensive response from the Odisha government regarding the ongoing strikes by several categories of government employees.

Hearing a public interest petition that sought restrictions on such strikes, the Court issued notices to the Chief Secretary and the Revenue Secretary, directing them to submit their replies within the stipulated timeframe.

Notices were also issued to the Odisha Administrative Service Association (OASA) and the Rajya Amala Sangha, requiring them to present their stand on the matter. The case has been scheduled for its next hearing in one week.

During the proceedings, the High Court expressed concern over the statewide agitation by primary school teachers. It sought clarity on how normal classroom activities were being maintained when an estimated 15,000 to 20,000 teachers had reportedly withdrawn from academic duties.

The bench, taking note of upcoming examinations, questioned how teaching and other academic functions were being carried out amid the ongoing protests.

The petitioner highlighted past instances, including a shutdown call by the OAS Association during disturbances related to the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC), as well as a 15-day strike by the Rajya Amala Sangha. These examples, the petitioner argued, demonstrated the extent to which prolonged strikes had disrupted administrative functioning.

After issuing the notices, the High Court directed all respondents to file their replies and listed the matter for further hearing in one week.